Former statehouse speaker Daniels to retire

The longtime former head of the Illinois House Republicans who was forced out of his leadership post amid a federal investigation plans to retire from his legislative seat at the end of his term in 2007.

Rep. Lee Daniels (R-Elmhurst) said he has accepted the chairmanship of a $3.5 million capital drive for Sanguin Services, a Cicero-based nonprofit that's geared toward people with disabilities.

"After three decades of serving the 46th District in Springfield, there are new opportunities for me to continue my public service while I spend more time both with my family, friends and law practice," said Daniels, a partner in the Bell, Boyd & Lloyd law firm.